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357 Magnum Ammo For Sale

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A past favorite of police and military personnel (even famously used by General Patton), the .357 Magnum was designed as an improvement to the .38 Special and remains one of the most popular center-fire revolver cartridges among civilians for self defense and hunters for game like deer and hogs. Learn More
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  1. CCI 357 Magnum Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 158 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $564.99

    6 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Aluminum
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1150 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 464 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 56.5¢ per round
    • Made by Blazer
  2. Ammo Inc. 357 Magnum Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 158 Grain TMJ Ammunition

    $589.99

    49 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type TMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1235 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 535 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 59¢ per round
    • Made by Ammo Incorporated
  3. PMC 357 Magnum Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 158 Grain JSP Ammunition

    $599.99

    53 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JSP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1471 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 759 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 60¢ per round
    • Made by PMC
  4. Sellier and Bellot 357 Magnum Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 158 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $599.99

    3 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1263 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 560 ft lbs
  5. CCI 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 158 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $31.99

    115 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Berdan
    Casing Type Aluminum
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1150 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 464 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 64¢ per round
    • Made by Blazer
  6. Fiocchi 357 Magnum Ammo - 1000 Rounds of 158 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $649.99

    3 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1220 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 522 ft lbs
    • 1000 Rounds
    • 65¢ per round
    • Made by Fiocchi
  7. PMC 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 158 Grain JSP Ammunition

    $32.99

    131 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JSP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1471 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 759 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 66¢ per round
    • Made by PMC
  8. Ammo Inc. 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 158 Grain TMJ Ammunition

    $32.99

    119 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type TMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1235 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 535 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 66¢ per round
    • Made by Ammo Incorporated
  9. Armscor 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 158 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $33.99

    132 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1545 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 823 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 68¢ per round
    • Made by Armscor
  10. Sellier and Bellot 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 158 Grain FMJ Ammunition

    $34.99

    90 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type FMJ
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1263 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 560 ft lbs
  11. Magtech 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 158 Grain SJSP Ammunition

    $34.99

    107 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type SJSP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1235 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 535 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 70¢ per round
    • Made by Magtech
  12. Sellier and Bellot 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 158 Grain LFN Ammunition

    $34.99

    54 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type LFN
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1125 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 445 ft lbs
  13. Remington 357 Magnum Ammo - 500 Rounds of 125 Grain JSP Ammunition

    $394.99

    12 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JSP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1450 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 584 ft lbs
    • 500 Rounds
    • 79¢ per round
    • Made by Remington
  14. Federal Train + Protect 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 125 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $39.99

    106 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1440 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 575 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • 80¢ per round
    • Made by Federal
  15. Remington 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 125 Grain JSP Ammunition

    $41.99

    104 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JSP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1450 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 584 ft lbs
  16. Corbon 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 100 Grain PowR Ball Ammunition

    $21.00

    35 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1450 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 467 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.05 per round
    • Made by Corbon
  17. Black Hills Ammunition 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 125 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $54.99

    82 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1500 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 625 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • $1.1 per round
    • Made by Black Hills Ammunition
  18. Black Hills Ammunition 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 158 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $54.99

    58 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1250 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 548 ft lbs
    • 50 Rounds
    • $1.1 per round
    • Made by Black Hills Ammunition
  19. Hornady Critical Duty 357 Magnum Ammo - 250 Rounds of 135 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $299.99

    15 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1275 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 487 ft lbs
    • 250 Rounds
    • $1.2 per round
    • Made by Hornady
  20. Underwood 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 158 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $24.99
    As low as $22.00 in bulk
    • $22.00 each if you buy 10save 12%

    74 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1500 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 790 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.10 to $1.25 per round
    • Made by Underwood
  21. Hornady 357 Magnum Ammo - 250 Rounds of 125 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $314.99

    35 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1500 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 624 ft lbs
    • 250 Rounds
    • $1.26 per round
    • Made by Hornady
  22. Winchester 357 Magnum Ammo - 50 Rounds of 110 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $64.99

    120 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1295 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 410 ft lbs
  23. Hornady 357 Magnum Ammo - 25 Rounds of 125 Grain JHP Ammunition (Cases Not Nickel-Plated)

    $32.99

    85 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1500 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 624 ft lbs
    • 25 Rounds
    • $1.32 per round
    • Made by Hornady
  24. Hornady 357 Magnum Ammo - 25 Rounds of 135 Grain FTX Ammunition

    $32.99

    92 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1275 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 487 ft lbs
    • 25 Rounds
    • $1.32 per round
    • Made by Hornady
  25. Remington HTP 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 158 Grain SJHP Ammunition

    $26.49

    10 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type SJHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1235 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 535 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.32 per round
    • Made by Remington
  26. Federal 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 158 Grain Fusion Ammunition

    $26.99

    120 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type Fusion
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1240 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 539 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.35 per round
    • Made by Federal
  27. Corbon 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 110 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $27.99

    71 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1500 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 549 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.40 per round
    • Made by Corbon
  28. Federal 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 158 Grain JHP Ammunition

    $27.99

    82 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type JHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1240 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 539 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.4 per round
    • Made by Federal
  29. Remington HTP 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 125 Grain SJHP Ammunition

    $27.99

    89 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type SJHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1450 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 584 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.40 per round
    • Made by Remington
  30. Winchester Big Bore 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 158 Grain SJHP Ammunition

    $27.99

    43 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type SJHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1460 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 748 ft lbs
  31. Hornady Handgun Hunter 357 Magnum Ammo - 25 Rounds of 130 Grain MonoFlex Ammunition

    $34.99

    62 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type SCHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1250 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 451 ft lbs
    • 25 Rounds
    • $1.40 per round
    • Made by Hornady
  32. Remington HTP 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 110 Grain SJHP Ammunition

    $28.25

    113 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type SJHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1295 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 410 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.41 per round
    • Made by Remington
  33. Barnes 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 140 Grain XPB HP Ammunition

    $29.99

    119 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type SCHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1265 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 498 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.5 per round
    • Made by Barnes
  34. Remington HTP 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 158 Grain SP Ammunition

    $29.99

    55 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type SP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1235 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 535 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.50 per round
    • Made by Remington
  35. Federal Vital-Shok 357 Magnum Ammo - 20 Rounds of 140 Grain XPB HP Ammunition

    $34.99

    43 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type SCHP
    Primer Type Boxer
    Casing Type Nickel-Plated Brass
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1400 FPS
    Muzzle Energy 609 ft lbs
    • 20 Rounds
    • $1.75 per round
    • Made by Federal

History of 357 Magnum Ammo

The .357 Magnum – the first and most popular handgun magnum caliber – is a rimmed centerfire cartridge that has proven itself through more than 85 years of use by law enforcement and shooting enthusiasts throughout the United States and beyond.

Also referred to as the .357 S&W Magnum or the 9x33mmR, .357 Mag ammo features a .357 inch (9.1mm) diameter bullet in a casing that measures 1.29 inches in length. Together, the total length of the .357 Mag cartridge measures 1.59 inches. It’s loaded to a maximum pressure of 35,000 psi and has an average velocity of 1,090 feet per second (fps).

Today, .357 Magnum ammo is one of the world’s most popular high-velocity handgun cartridges. It offers shooters a flat trajectory, deep penetration, and superior knockdown power, making it effective for police forces, hunters, and target shooters.

Development of the .357 Magnum Bullet

According to Cartridges of the World, the .357 Magnum cartridge was developed in 1935, as an improvement to the .38 Special. It resulted from of a collaboration between the legendary Elmer Keith, gun writer Phil Sharpe, D.B. Wesson of Smith & Wesson, and Winchester firearms.

The need for a stronger handgun cartridge arose after World War I, when law enforcement needed ammunition that could penetrate vehicles and the newly emerging ballistic vests. Bootlegging was rampant during this time period, as was gangster activity, and police needed an efficient and effective way to fight against them.

The .38 Special, which was the common caliber carried by law enforcement and special forces at the time, was powerful, but barely reached the necessary velocity of 1,000 fps that was needed to get through vests and car doors.

The idea to elaborate on the .38 Special cartridge came from Keith, who was an avid gun enthusiast, loading experimenter, and handgun hunter. He’d been loading .38 Special ammo to a higher pressure and was involved in the creation of revolvers like the Smith & Wesson .38-44 Outdoorsman. These were heavy-framed .44 caliber frames, bored for the .38 Special.

These strong frames could withstand more power and pressure than those designed for the standard .38 Special and could handle the bigger bang. Based on this idea, the team started with the .38 and set out to make something bigger and better.

Design of the .357 Magnum

The final rendition of S&W and Winchester’s .357 Magnum bullets took the .38 Special casing and extended it by one-eighth. They kept the same .357 diameter bullet (the actual bullet size of the .38 Special) and packed a little more powder at a slightly higher pressure into the 357 shells.

This casing extension didn’t just give its creators more space for powder, it also made the .357 rounds impossible to fit into firearms chambered for the .38 Special, which most likely couldn’t withstand the power of firing the bullet.

The first cartridge held a 158 grain (gr) bullet and shot the semi-wadcutter load at over 1,500 fps out of a larger N-frame revolver with a 8 ⅜ inch barrel. To further test the .357 Magnum rounds and firearm, which would eventually become the S&W Model 27, Wesson took the revolver and ammo on a big game hunt in Wyoming during the fall of 1935. Proving the effectiveness of the cartridge, Wesson harvested antelope, moose, elk, and even a grizzly bear with the new firearm and cartridge.

The .357 Magnum revolver went into production and the first one to leave the factory with the serial number one, was given to J. Edgar Hoover. After its release, the .357 Mag spent 20 years with the title of the world’s most powerful handgun cartridge.

Uses for the .357 Magnum

After its initial production, the .357 Magnum proved itself a worthwhile cartridge. U.S. military personnel used this caliber from World War II through Vietnam. General George S. Patton, one particularly famous .357 Magnum shooter, carried two revolvers, one an ivory handled (not pearl) S&W .357 Magnum and the other an ivory handled single action .45 Long Colt.

For years, revolvers chambered for the .357 Magnum sat on the hips of police officers, security guards, and some of the U.S.’s special forces. Even today, decades after classic revolvers were replaced with semi-automatic pistols, short barreled .357 Mag revolvers still offer backup support to those who protect and serve.

The .357 Mag cartridge also become popular for hunting, silhouette shooting, and self defense, both against human perpetrators and dangerous game (if in the area of the largest predators, such as grizzlies, many suggest opting for a magnum cartridge of a larger caliber, such as the .44 Magnum, .41 Magnum, or .500 S&W, but with practice and accuracy, a .357 Mag can help).

Due to its aforementioned versatility, the .357 Magnum provides a full range of applications and offers just about everything a handgun owner needs for target shooting, protection, and hunting. Because of this, if someone wants to only own one firearm, many recommend it be a .357 Magnum revolver.

The .357 Magnum Revolver

Since its conception, a plethora of revolvers have been built to accommodate the .357 Magnum cartridge and a high demand for these firearms remains today. Not only do all major ammunition manufacturers produce .357 Magnum ammo, but all major firearms manufacturers also produce a weapon for this common caliber.

Over the last two to three decades, revolvers – as a whole – have fallen in popularity when compared to semi-automatics. Yet many would argue that revolvers are not only a viable option for most handgun needs, but they’re also better suited than semi-automatics.

Revolvers tend to be more resilient than semi-automatics and can often withstand rain, snow, sand, and neglect. They’re reliable firearms, less finicky than magazine-fed pistols and much less likely to misfire. And with fewer components and moving parts, revolvers are easier to clean and maintenance.

Combine these benefits with the power, trajectory, and accuracy of .357 Magnum ammunition, and it becomes evident why this cartridge and the firearms chambered for it are an American favorite.

Here are some of the most popular and best performing .357 Magnum revolvers made since the cartridge first hit the market.

Smith & Wesson Model 27: Smith & Wesson’s first revolver chambered for the .357 Mag would eventually become known as the Model 27. Designed on the N-frame, this classic piece features a six-shot wheel, four-inch barrel, and carbon steel frame with a blue finish.

Colt Python: Often referred to as one of the finest made revolvers in history, the Colt Python was marketed as a premium-grade on its release in 1955, and is still considered a premium firearm today. This iconic six-shot revolver is ergonomic and accurate, and came in multiple barrel lengths. Since Colt ceased production of the Python, the price of these .357 Mag revolvers have soared.

Smith & Wesson Model 19: Called the “answer to policemen's prayers,” the S&W Model 19 is a double action, six-shot wheelgun that started being produced in the 1950s. Designed on a K-frame, the Model 19 was lighter and more ergonomic than the Model 27, and S&W offered it in multiple sized barrels – from two and one-half to six inches. First called the Combat Magnum, the Model 19 was so popular, the revolver remained in production for 45 years (S&W ceased its manufacturing in 1999).

Ruger Blackhawk: The Ruger Blackhawk was first released in 1955, and this popular .357 Magnum revolver is still in production today. With a six-shot cylinder, this cowboy-style revolver is extremely customizable and affordable. Today, Ruger claims it as the most-advanced single action wheelgun ever made.

Taurus Model 608: For those who are looking for more than a six-shooter, the Taurus Model 608 is a .357 Magnum revolver with an eight-round cylinder and six and one-half inch barrel. This firearm features amazing accuracy, reduced muzzle flip, and the Taurus Security System that makes the revolver unable to fire without its key.

Chiappa Rhino 40DS: Modern and unconventional looking, the Chiappa Rhino 40DS features a four-inch barrel and options for both single and double action firing. This .357 Magnum revolver’s unique design and low bore axis give its shooter less recoil and muzzle flip. Combined with its adjustable fiber optic sites, it is the 21st-century’s revolver.

Charter Arms Mag Pug: For those looking for a .357 Magnum revolver for a concealed carry weapon, the Charter Arms Mag Pug provides a big bang in a little package. With a five-shot cylinder and just over a two-inch barrel, this compact .357 Mag wheelgun is truly compact. Made from stainless steel, it still features a full-sized grip, allowing its shooter comfort and control.

Ruger GP100 Match Champion: Competition shooters can find a favorite with the Ruger GP100 Match Champion. This .357 Magnum revolver is known for its simplicity and strength. WIth a triple-locking contoured six-shot cylinder, this revolver has competitive-level accuracy and fiber optic sites.

.357 Magnum Ammo Types

The .357 Magnum cartridge comes in a variety of types for different needs and goals. Some of the most common include:

  • Full metal jacket (FMJ): FMJ ammo features a lead bullet jacketed in a harder metal to help the bullet hold its shape.
  • Jacketed hollow point (JHP): JHP bullets feature a hollow point within the lead that causes the bullet to expand on impact.
  • Total metal jacket (TMJ): The TMJ bullet limits lead exposure, as the bullet is completely encased in a harder metal (where the FMJ has some exposed lead at the bottom of the bullet, inside the casing).
  • Soft point (SP): SP ammo uses a softer lead, which causes a slower expansion and deeper penetration. These cartridges are often used in handgun hunting.

Shooting a .38 Special vs. 357 Mag

Because the .357 Magnum and the .38 Special have the same size bullet and casing diameter, a handgun chambered to shoot a .357 Magnum cartridge can shoot a .38 Special. Yet a gun chambered for the .38 Special can’t shoot a .357 Magnum (and most won’t accept the .357 Mag, as it’s too long).

For more ammo options, check our Remington 357 Magnum ammo page.

Using .38 Special ammo in a .357 Magnum revolver can bring a range of benefits. With less powder and pressure, the .38 Special cartridge reduces recoil and muzzle flip, making it easier to handle, especially for small-framed shooters or those with limited experience. The .38 Special rounds also tend to be less expensive than the more powerful 357 rounds, which may mean shooters practice more regularly.

Are There .357 Magnum Semi-Autos and Rifles?

The .357 Magnum is mostly found in revolvers, however, other firearm are chambered to this caliber. Marlin, Henry, and others have manufactured lever action rifles for the .357 Magnum, and Ruger introduced a bolt action rifle chambered for the cartridge as well.

Israeli Military Industries and Coonan have made semi-automatic pistols that fire the .357 Magnum, but these magazine-fed pistols haven’t gained in popularity for a few reasons. Due to the size of the cartridge, these pistols have a rather large grip that’s uncomfortable for many shooters. What’s more, the development of the 10mm resolved the need for a bigger, more powerful semi-auto round.

Although the .357 Magnum is now less popular among law enforcement agencies due to the advantages in performance and capacity offered by semi-automatic pistols, it’s still a valid hunting, self-defense, and plinking caliber. And with a wide range of .357 Magnum ammunition made by popular ammo companies like Hornady, Federal, and Magtech – all of which offer competitive 357 Magnum ammo prices – this cartridge is by no means obsolete. It’s versatile and can be shot in many firearms, ensuring that the first Magnum will continue to be one of the most popular on the market.

FAQ

What is 357 Magnum ammo?

When discussing ammo, .357 Magnum refers to a rimmed centerfire cartridge that is one of the most popular high-velocity handgun cartridges in the world. It was the first magnum caliber manufactured and has been used for over 85 years in law enforcement and for self defense, hunters, target shooters, and backyard plinkers.

What is the best .357 Magnum ammo?

The best .357 Mag ammo depends on the shooter’s specific needs. For range shooting, many opt for a full metal jacket (FMJ) round. These cartridges can be purchased in bulk, which makes them some of the cheapest .357 ammo available. For those interested in self defense, law enforcement, or even hunting, many recommend jacketed hollow points (JHP), which expand on impact, creating more stopping power and reducing the risk of overpenetration. Reputable brands that manufacture .357 Mag ammo include Hornady, Fiocchi, and Federal, among others.

What is the difference between 357 SIG and 357 Magnum ammo?

The .357 SIG was designed to mimic the .357 Mag stopping power and velocity and make it available in a magazine-fed, semi-automatic pistol, as the .357 Mag is considered a revolver round. The .357 Mag bullet is .002 inch longer in diameter than the SIG and when it comes to projectiles of the same weight and type, the Mag has slightly better performance. For instance, with a 125 grain FMJ bullet, the .357 Mag reaches a velocity of 1,450 fps and an energy force of 583 ft·lbs, while the .357 SIG reaches a velocity of 1,350 fps and a force of 506 ft·lbs.

What ammo is best for self-defense - 357 Magnum or 38 Special?

When it comes to self defense, both the .357 Mag and the .38 Special have plenty of benefits. These calibers share the same projectile diameter and .38 Special rounds can even be fired out of revolvers made for the .357 Mag. While that may make the Magnum the choice for many, the .38 Special does have benefits. The round is easier to handle, with less recoil and muzzle lift, making it a great option for female shooters, seniors, and those new to carrying concealed. Another benefit of the .38 Special is that the firearms chambered for the .38 Special are smaller and easier to conceal, as well as more manageable to fire then the .357 Mag.

Which is bigger - 9mm or 357 Magnum ammo?

When comparing the two ammunitions, the .357 Magnum is larger than the 9mm Parabellum. The .357 has a projectile with a slightly larger diameter than the 9mm (.357 inch vs .355 inch in the 9mm) and the overall total cartridge length is also bigger (1.59 inch vs. 1.169 inch). The .357 Mag reaches a higher velocity and has significantly more muzzle energy.

Which is more powerful - 357 Magnum or 45 ACP ammo?

The .357 Magnum is a more powerful round than the .45 ACP. The Magnum cartridge has an average velocity of 1,450 feet per second (fps), while the .45 Auto reaches an average velocity of 960 fps. The .357 Mag also reaches higher muzzle energy than the .45: 583 ft·lbs for the Magnum and 471 for the ACP.

357 Magnum Ballistics: Chart of Average 357 Magnum Ballistics

When it comes to ballistics, .357 Magnum ammo has some significant stats. It has double the velocity and three times the energy of the standard .38 Special cartridge. It also features a flat trajectory, deep penetration, and strong knockdown power.

According to ballistic specialists Ed Sanow and Evan Marshall, most factory jacketed hollow point (JHP) cartridges with a 125 gr bullet have 96 percent one-shot stops.

Note: This information comes from the manufacturer and is for informational purposes only. The actual ballistics obtained with your firearm can vary considerably from the advertised ballistics. Also, ballistics can vary from lot to lot with the same brand and type load.

357 Magnum Bullet WEIGHT Muzzle VELOCITY (fps) Muzzle ENERGY (ft. lbs.) Mid-Range TRAJECTORY (in.) Barrel Length (in.)
  Muzzle 50 yds. 100 yds. Muzzle 50 yds. 100 yds. 50 yds. 100 yds.  
105 Grain 1650 n/a n/a n/a 385 n/a n/a n/a n/a
110 Grain

1295

1095 975 410 290 230 0.8 3.5 4-V
125 Grain Medium Velocity 1220 1075 985 415 315 270 0.8 3.7 4-V
125 Grain JHP 1409 n/a n/a 551 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
125 Grain 1450 1240 1090 585 425 330 0.6 2.8 4-V
125 Grain 1500 1312 1163 624 478 376 n/a n/a 8"
125 Grain JHP 1600 n/a n/a 771 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
140 Grain Multi-Ball 1155 830 665 420 215 135 1.2 6.4 4-V
140 Grain 1360 1195 1075 575 445 360 0.7 3 4-V
140 Grain FlexTip 1440 1274 1143 644 504 406 n/a n/a n/a
145 Grain 1290 1155 1060 535 430 360 0.8 3.5 4-V
150 Grain 1235 1105 1015 535 430 360 0.8 3.5 4-V
158 Grain 1235 1105 1015 535 430 360 0.8 3.5 4-V
158 Grain Cowboy 800 761 725 225 203 185 n/a n/a n/a
158 Grain JHP 1350 n/a n/a 640 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
158 Grain Remington Maximum 1825 1590 1380 1170 885 670 0.4 1.7 10.5"
165 Grain 1290 1189 1108 610 518 450 0.7 3.1 8-3/8"
180 Grain 1145 1055 985 525 445 390 0.9 3.9 4-V
180 Grain 1180 1088 1020 557 473 416 0.8 3.6 8-V
180 Grain CorBon F.A. 1650 1512 1386 1088 913 767 1.66 0 n/a
200 Grain 1200 1123 1061 640 560 500 3.19 0 n/a
Molly Carter
Written by
Molly Carter

Customer Reviews

  • Big Jake said:

    Bought 100 rounds of .357 Mags for my 686, once the cylinder rotated around to the spent cartridges it would no longer rotate past them. Once I did get the cylinder open I could not get the spent cartridges out and had to tap them out backwards from the front of the cylinder with a rod. That being said, the 4 rounds that I got fired performed well LOL.

  • D said:

    If you have a revolver ,,, Do NOT buy this ammo. I have a S & W 686 and every round hangs up in the cylinder!!!

  • Paul said:

    The product presents a good value. I'm a newbie to target shooting, but I did notice that these shells stick in my S&W 357 magnum requiring a small block or something other than my soft hand to knock them out. Brass shells don't do that. I've had a couple of duds in about 200 rounds, but they shoot the second time around. I will buy this product again.

  • Flyboy said:

    I had no problems, will buy again.

  • flyboy said:

    I have bougrt this ammo before, no problems, ejects fine, and shoots a tight pattern. QUICKER DELVERY THAN I EXSPECTED.

  • F said:

    Ammo it loded hot just how I like it. Yes its not HP or JHP but since it has significantly more energy than avg 357 Magnum Ammo I feel I dont need it to be HP to get good effect. Also its among the least expensive Brass .357 Magnum Ammo while still performing quite well. What's not to like?

  • customer said:

    Good quality ammo, would buy again.

  • Chuck-a-Luck said:

    This is the ammo I've decided to use in my handgun. Given the velocity, the recoil is smooth, consistent and manageable. I'm on target with Fiocchi.

  • Doug said:

    This ammo would not function two rounds in a row in my firearm. I had problems with rounds loading from the magazine, and I had rounds fail to eject cleanly. I did shoot some one at a time and the accuracy was not up to snuff with other brands. This pistol can be finicky with this type of bullet, but it really didn't like this load.

  • Bret said:

    I have used other Fioochi ammo with my .357 handgun and my carbine with no problems and this ammo continues that excellent performance. Shoots well and fed without a hitch.

  • Big bob said:

    Good

  • Na said:

    Your ammo is of good quality and performs well on the range.

  • Preper said:

    I would recommend this ammo to all my friends.

  • Michael said:

    I'm extremely happy. The ammo is great quality

  • murphy said:

    The best price by far on the web & beats the local stores. I was pleased by how fast my order arrived! I liked the donations the store offers & wished more offered it. I'll order more ammo when ya'll get more in. Very glad I found this site. Thank you. Lee

  • Jimbo said:

    Excellent ammo. Shot several hundred rounds from from my GP-100, Ruger Redhawk .357, and Henry Big Boy Steel with no problems. Great ballistics, and very accurate. Will buy again.

  • JC said:

    I’ve used the Fiocchi 142 gr and this 158 gr (both FMJ) has hardly any additional recoil despite the higher weight bullet. Unfortunately with this coronavirus situation all ammo prices are higher than before or I would have rated price better.

  • Robert said:

    I found this product to be adequate for my needs. My only wish is that Washington stops jacking up the price. Soon we won't be able to afford it and that is their goal. We will probably see this in our lifetime.

  • Speedy said:

    Outstanding value and the best brand on the market.

  • Mick said:

    All rounds fired cleanly, great product.

  • Tyler said:

    Before I found this website I ordered from somewhere else and had an awful experience and had to wait 6 months to finally get my order and decided I wouldn’t buy online again. But I gave this a shot and am extremely glad I did. My order shipped right away and got here in like a week and I’m so excited

  • Tad said:

    Good ammo.

  • djhgrit said:

    Good ammo. Shoots good. Whish the ammo supply would get back to normal.

  • JD said:

    Have used this almost 100 percent in my Ruger. I marked value down one because we always want the best cheap.

  • Nick said:

    Very high quality ammunition...very happy with it!

  • Chuck said:

    Great deal on the ammo when I bought it. Price has jumped since I purchased.

  • DJ said:

    Great range ammo.

  • Doug said:

    This ammo would have gotten better quality rating but there was a lot of unburned residue left in the action of my firearm. I was shooting a Desert Eagle and although the ammo burned "dirty" this never effected accuracy or function of my firearm. It did function without interruption and was surprisingly accurate for the price.

  • 3ddi3myboy said:

    Good prices and delivery; that is all I ask. Many thanks!

  • Jersy said:

    A quality product at a really good price. You can not go wrong with this this selection.

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  • Sott said:

    Don't normally fire .357; use 38 special +p hollow points in the bedside table and 38 special leaded for practice. the 357 was hot and after 50 rds, i felt it in my sholder.

  • No nickname said:

    I am just stocking up. The ammo has not been used, but I am sure the performance will be fine. The price was right and I have bought the Federal Brand before. The quality is good. Shipping was fast and will order from Ammo.com again.